I must say, I was a bit skeptical based on the prior reviews but I had a lovely time at this Holiday Inn property. I booked here solely because it was a last minute trip and I needed the best value for my money; I feel like I received that and more. I booked directly thru Holiday Inn, so that I could get their rewards points. If you pay in advance, the rate is much better. I booked about 2 months in advance for a double occupancy room (but it was just myself) with a garden view. The Holiday Inn Mo'bay is about 15-20 minutes from the airport. The hotel does not offer a shuttle however, I booked a round trip taxi on viator with ease for $80 (might seem pricey but well worth it). Upon arriving, one of the bellhops immediately greeted me and took my bags. Since I booked directly thru the hotel, I had some sort of VIP check-in experience. I went into a special room and sat down with the concierge, who then went over my bill and gave me a run down of the hotel. I'm not sure I would consider that VIP but it was seemed pleasant and individualized. In regards to my experience: Pros: - The hotel itself seems a little dated in decor however, it appeared clean and well kept. Lots of space to walk around or lounge about whether pool side, by the beach, or in the lobby area. There seems to be a number of buildings, so depending on where you are, you may be closer or further from the main entrance. The premises also seem to cater to all vacationers, whether you are elderly, have children, or solo, there is a spot for you to enjoy yourself. - If you are someone who prefers to be away from families and children, there is an adults only area at the far end of the resort which I absolutely loved. There was a small pool and jacuzzi with a swim up bar in the area. Also a couple cabanas and beach chairs on the beach to lounge around. I really enjoyed this space. They could use a few more beach umbrellas around the pool area, but overall, it was a nice, relaxing space. After my first walk over there, I decided to go every evening. Its an ideal place to watch the sunset while you have a drink from the "Smaddy Bar". - There is a beach island right by the main area. Simply walk across the water (its shallow). Its really beautiful and relaxing. Finding a beach chair was not hard either. - My room was in building 3, on the top floor (4). I was on the garden side, closets to the entrance side of the property. Not much of a view, but that wasn't a priority for me. Above all, my room was spacious, clean, and comfortable. The bed was soft and comfy. There was a couch and mini fridge in the room, as well as a full balcony with chairs. The AC also worked great. - The bathroom was clean and appeared modern. Lots of towels provided. Amenities included hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. - The main pool area is nice and doubles as a stage area for recreational activities as well as the live shows. - Food was impeccable! I was very surprised as I have had bad experiences with food at resorts in Jamaica. The selection at "De Port" buffet was great and they offered a number of authentic Jamaican dishes. There was also a small station just for children. As someone of Jamaican descent, I was happy to have an opportunity to enjoy comfort food on the island, without having to leave the property. Aside from "De Port", the food at "De Terrace" was amazing! Again, authentic Jamaican dishes in a fine dining setting. Wonderful. The food at the Jerk Hut and barefoot bar weren't as great, but still good fare. Be sure to grab unlimited ice cream as well. - Drinks throughout the resort were decent and included local beverages. I'm not much of a drinker, so this was not a priority for me. - Entertainment was great! There was a board by the pool area featuring a full schedule of activities throughout the week. I participated in the adult activities which included musical chairs and "don't drop the egg" game. Sooo much fun! On one evening, I attended the live show which featured two bands (more like lovers rock reggae). Both were absolutely amazing! They performed a mixture of pop, reggae, dancehall, and gospel. - Late nights, I went over to the pub for their nightclub experience. The music is great but there was barely a crowd. - In general, all of the staff were kind, courteous, and helpful toward me. I never had any issues that could not be addressed in a timely manner. - Amenities are available relatively early and pretty late. So if you need to get up early for an excursion and need breakfast, its most likely available. And, if you get back late, there's at least one option for food and drinks available until midnight. - There are a number of beach activities available right on the property. I participated in the glass bottom boat tour for $35USD. Not much to see but it was beautiful and our guide was knowledgable. - The hotel offers free shuttle to Margaritaville and Rose Hall. I did not partake in either, but I thought it was a great option. - Finally, I had a friend from the area who wanted to come see me. The hotel offers an evening pass (6pm-1am) for $95. Given that I had a double occupancy room but was the only occupant, the hotel let me add my friend to my stay. Therefore, I did not have to pay the fee. I was ecstatic about that as it saved me money and we enjoyed ourselves. Cons: - Check-in is firmly set at 3pm. Not a minute earlier. For someone who took a 6am flight and wanted to rest, I found this to be a pain. I thought they would at least offer a room, if available before 3pm but nope, its a firm 3pm, and don't come asking any earlier because they will tell you its not time. Once 3pm hits though, there is a long line. So be sure to get up around 2:50pm to get on the line. Once I was checked in, all was well. It would be great if they offered early check-in for a fee, at the very least. - The bars have long wait times. Particularly at the Barefoot Bar and Jerk Hut. With the beating hot sun, the wait times seemed unbearably long. Luckily, you have other choices throughout the property. However, my biggest issue with this is that I'm not a big alcohol drinker. I drink water and occasionally soda. I had to stand on every line, just to get a cup, so that I could use the self-serve machines. I would highly suggest instituting water pitchers or coolers throughout the property, so that guests have access to water throughout the day. Waiting on the line just for a cup is crazy to me. - I genuinely liked my room however, the bathroom was a bit off. The shower had great pressure and hot water but, the glass shower door only covered a portion of the shower. So as I took my shower, water would spray out onto the floor then into the halway area. Very odd design. - TV was very very minimal. I managed to capture just 1 channel. Luckily, I didn't spend much time indoors Overall, I had a good experience and I'm highly pleased with my stay. Not only would I return, but I would recommend to others. Thank you!…